Lahore Smog Crisis Escalates with Over 15,000 Health Infections Reported in a Single Day
Lahore’s worsening smog crisis has triggered a severe health emergency, with over 15,000 cases of respiratory and viral infections reported in just 24 hours. Hospitals across the city are overwhelmed, treating thousands of patients for conditions including dry cough, breathing difficulties, pneumonia, and chest infections. Among the hardest-hit facilities are Mayo Hospital with over 4,000 cases, Jinnah Hospital with 3,500, Gangaram Hospital reporting 3,000, and the Children’s Hospital treating more than 2,000 affected individuals.
Medical experts have voiced serious concerns about the impact of smog on vulnerable groups, particularly children and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions. Professor Ashraf Zia noted that “special children are severely affected,” with more than ten viral diseases now prevalent in the city, including pneumonia, skin diseases, and various respiratory infections.
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In response to the escalating crisis, the Punjab Transport Department has imposed stringent measures to reduce vehicle emissions. Light transport vehicles (LTVs) emitting visible smoke will face fines of Rs. 2,000 for a first offense and Rs. 4,000 for repeated violations. Heavy vehicles, including buses and trucks, emitting excessive smoke will be required to remain off the roads until they comply with emission standards. Authorities are mandated to submit daily and weekly reports on enforcement actions taken against non-compliant vehicles.
To further mitigate the smog’s impact, the Punjab government has extended school and college closures to five additional divisions, joining the already affected areas of Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad. This measure aims to protect public health as the air quality in the region continues to deteriorate, raising concerns over the long-term environmental and health implications of the crisis.
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